Get Your Steps With These Run Clubs
Training for a big race? Looking to make new friends? These groups offer stress-free strolls and socializing.
It seems like everywhere you look these days, another social run club is popping up—and in Bergen County, the trend is picking up speed. What began as a simple way to log a few miles has evolved into something much bigger: a chance to meet new people, build friendships and become part of a community. For many participants, the post-run coffee and conversation have become just as important as the workout itself.
The movement reflects a broader national shift toward fitness with a social twist. According to Strava’s Year in Sport data, participation in running clubs has grown 59 percent globally over the past two years, making group running the platform’s fastest-growing social activity. Surveys also show that nearly half of people who join fitness groups do so to make social connections, while among Gen Z, that number rises to more than half.
Whether you’re training for a race or simply looking to get outside and meet new people, today’s run clubs are proving that the finish line is only part of the experience. (Membership is often open to all levels, from world-class runner to the person who dreaded the mile run in gym class.) Around Bergen County, these welcoming groups are turning sidewalks, parks and neighborhood coffee shops into hubs for fitness, friendship and fun.
Thinking about joining the movement? Lace up your sneakers and check out one of these local clubs:
Achilles International. The local chapter of this organization meets twice a week at Saddle River County Park in Rochelle Park. Anyone is welcome to join either as an athlete with a disability or a volunteer guide runner.
De Novo Harriers. Formed in 2014, this group welcomes runners of all levels and holds events throughout North Jersey, including all sections of Saddle River County Park.
Jersey Women Strong. North Jersey’s largest all-women’s run group is open to all ages and abilities. It holds regular workouts and group runs at the Ridgewood Duck Pond and other locations throughout the region.
North Jersey Masters. Membership to this nearly 40-year-old club includes organized workouts, group runs, training, social events and more.
Palisades Running Club. Based in Tenafly, this group meets every Sunday morning for road runs at varied locations. A member of the Road Runners Club of America, this organization also has targeted runs and organizes social events.
Racefaster. If you have a child who’s interested in running for sport or a young one who simply wants to have fun, this organization holds regular programs, summer camps and private sessions. In addition, Racefaster also holds regular running events for all ages and skill levels.
Rat Race Run Club. This social run club offers space for anyone, whether they’re training for a 5K, getting in steps or just want to make new friends. They meet regularly in Ridgewood—follow them on Instagram for exact location.
Run, Walk, Skip. This casual group is organized by folks who love to run and hang out. Join them Saturday mornings at Saddle River County Park—their sessions are open to anyone and all paces.
Show us photos from your most recent race or workout: Tag us on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
